Therapy can be a way to find new beginnings, whether you’ve experienced trauma or are interested in career counseling to find your dream job. A therapist can offer a wide range of tools to improve communication, change behavior, manage stress, and achieve personal goals. 

When it comes to finding a therapist, Chico, CA may offer more opportunities than surrounding rural areas, but finding the right therapist can be more complicated than simply reaching out to the nearest clinic. One reason for this is that within the field of psychotherapy, there are many evidence-based therapeutic approaches that target different treatment goals. For example, a therapist that specializes in issues related to eating disorders may not be the right match for someone experiencing delusional behaviors. Just like traditional medicine, psychology has specialization. What you need may not be available nearby. 

This is where online therapy can help. BetterHelp is a platform that offers access to North Valley counseling professionals who specialize in a variety of modalities and have experience working with diverse populations. Simply fill out an online questionnaire and BetterHelp will match you with a therapist that meets your individual needs. And because therapeutic success can depend on your ability to feel comfortable sharing during sessions, if you need to switch therapists at any time you can do so at no additional cost. 

If you live in the Chico, CA area and are interested in learning more about how online therapy can help, whether you’re dealing with conflict, are interested in recovery from addiction, or want to focus on self-discovery, check out the profiles below. These California-licensed professionals can get you started on your mental health and wellness journey. 

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Psychologist Dr. Demi Shugrue providing different types of therapy in Chico

Dr. Demi Shugrue

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LPCC 3879
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteemDepression
10 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 10 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, motivation, self esteem, & confidence. I also have experience working with depression. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Dr. Frederick  Smoot providing different types of therapy in Chico

Dr. Frederick Smoot

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 12959
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepressionCompassion fatigue
5 years offering treatment

I am a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (CA #12959) with over 15 years of experience counseling/ accompanying persons through difficult parts of their life-journeys. I have worked with a wide range of concerns including Isolation. loneliness, fearfulness, anxiety, intimacy/relationship issues, parenting and career challenges, addiction, physical and emotional abuse and life transitions. My counseling style is warm, curious and appropriately truth-telling.. I treat others with respect and consistent presence. I work to sustain and shame-free context that empowers persons to (re)claim their lies and future with dignity. I am an accompanist, using therapeutic tools gathered from several clinical approaches. I am relational, client centered, mindful, and strategic. I believe that direction and goals for therapy are shaped together with the client. We will tailor a treatment plan to meet your unique and specific needs. Your willingness to reach out for support shows your courage and desire for a better future. I encourage you to take this step, accompanied and supported I look forward to working with you.

Psychologist Giovanni Bass providing different types of therapy in Chico

Giovanni Bass

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 121844, AZ LCSW LCSW-21903
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesFamily conflictsTrauma and abuseDepression
14 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social-Worker with experience treating anxiety, depression, PTSD, eating disorders, and borderline personality. I also provide marital counseling and family consultation. I provide treatment plans that address problems associated with impulse control, anger management, communication, self-awareness, self-esteem, perspective, and negative thought patterns. I have over 5 years of experience and I have treated individuals in various parts of the world, including the U.S., Europe, and Asia. I provide spiritually integrated psychotherapy where the focus is on gaining knowledge of self and developing a relationship with a higher power. I have military experience and I am honored to have had the opportunity to treat many veterans and active duty soldiers suffering from various forms of trauma and adjustment disorders. My approach and treatment modalities include cognitive behavioral therapy, narrative therapy, rational emotive therapy, and psychodynamic therapy. Each treatment plan is tailored to meet the needs of each soul I interact with. I will support you and help you discover the strength, from within yourself, to fulfill your purpose and to live the life you want to live. Take that first step, and I will take the rest with you!

Psychologist Diane Cullen providing different types of therapy in Chico

Diane Cullen

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 25372
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsGriefCompassion fatigue
15 years offering treatment

I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with more than 30 years of experience in the Human Services field. I am based out of the Los Angeles, CA, area, My interest as a clinician is to work as a therapist who is resourceful, motivated, passionate, approachable, non- judgmental, diverse and informed. I have the interest and ability to offer assistance through the various stages and experiences of life as well as mental health issues for you. . My ability is to bring education, resources, hope and comfort to you. I will provide positive regard, respect, honesty and caring. We will examine the emotional experiences of life challenging mental health concerns. It takes courage to seek a more balanced and fulfilling life. I can create comprehensive therapy and treatment planning. Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.

Psychologist Chauncey Chatman providing different types of therapy in Chico

Chauncey Chatman

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 45560
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAddictionsTrauma and abuseAnger managementDepression
15 years offering treatment

I have over 15 years of experience providing therapy services to adolescents, couples, families and adults. My approach is a combination of collaborative talk therapy with a strong emphasis on mindfulness practices that foster self-awareness and behavior modification that result in more positive outcomes. My approach: My approach also includes active use of the principles of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Motivational Interviewing and Solution Focused therapy. I currently work with individual adult clients. I have worked as a School Counselor/Case Manager and Marriage and Family Therapist in various hospital and mental health clinic treatment settings in California to include work as a member of mental health treatment service teams that included psychologists, psychiatrists, social workers, peer counselors and family service workers. I earned a Master's degree in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. I am licensed in the State of California as a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I also hold certification as a Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor (SUDCC).

Psychologist Shirin Roberts providing different types of therapy in Chico

Shirin Roberts

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 29230
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyRelationship issuesTrauma and abuseSelf esteemCoping with life changes
26 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 26 years of professional work experience. I find working with people very enjoyable and rewarding. I work in a client centered way, getting to know each individual. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, trauma and abuse, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Dr. Malliga Battar providing different types of therapy in Chico

Dr. Malliga Battar

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 117133
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsTrauma and abuseGriefSelf esteemDepression
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California as a Marriage and Family Therapist. I have a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology and I have 15 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with coping with addictions, trauma and sexual abuse, coping with grief and loss, & motivation, self esteem, and confidence. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to sign up for therapy can take courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Derrell Tidwell providing different types of therapy in Chico

Derrell Tidwell

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 9609, WA LICSW LW 61520535
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsDepression
41 years offering treatment

I am licensed mental health practitioner in California and Washington with over 40 years of professional work experience. I'm experienced in helping clients with stress, anxiety, depression, LGBTQ+ related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts especially for people of color. I strongly believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming your challenges. My goal is to provide you clarity and assist you in utilizing your "natural toolbox" toward successfully addressing your challenges. I work Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturday mornings from 9 AM - 1 PM. (As of March 2026, my only openings are on Thursday mornings.) If you anticipate my work days/hours don't match your general availability, I encourage you to initiate a "request for therapist change" process by clicking the icon in the upper right corner of your account page and using the pull down menu. Taking the first step to sign up for assistance takes courage and I am proud of you for getting started!

Psychologist Dr. Andrea Shirley providing different types of therapy in Chico

Dr. Andrea Shirley

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 42752
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyLGBTRelationship issuesFamily conflictsSelf esteem
27 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 27 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, lgbtq+ related issues, relationship issues, & family conflicts. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist Melinda Olivas providing different types of therapy in Chico

Melinda Olivas

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist 35119
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyFamily conflictsDepression
4 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 4 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, relationship issues, family conflicts, & motivation. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist John Hammond providing different types of therapy in Chico

John Hammond

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 20086
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyGriefSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
40 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 40 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress and anxiety, coping with grief and loss, motivation, self esteem, and confidence, & depression. I work with my clients to create an open and safe environment where thoughts and feelings can be shared without fear of judgment. Taking the first step to seeking a more fulfilling and happier life takes courage. I am here to support you in that process.

Psychologist John Bradford providing different types of therapy in Chico

John Bradford

Clinician
License Type(s): CA Psychologist 20587
Mental Wellness Specialties: Stress, AnxietyAnger managementSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
20 years offering treatment

I am licensed in California with 20 years of professional work experience. I have experience in helping clients with stress, anxiety, anger management, motivation, self esteem, confidence, & depression. I also have experience working with coping with life changes. I believe that you are the expert of your story and that you have many strengths that will assist you in overcoming things that challenge you. It takes courage to seek out a more fulfilling and happier life and to take the first steps towards a change. I am here to support & empower you in that journey.

Psychologist Dr. Michele Forte-Perry providing different types of therapy in Chico

Dr. Michele Forte-Perry

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LCSW 135759, PA LCSW CW016872
Mental Wellness Specialties: Family conflictsParenting issuesSelf esteemCareer difficultiesCoping with life changes
25 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist with over two decades of experience, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My professional journey has been dedicated to helping clients address challenges like depression, anxiety, trauma, and self-esteem issues. I understand that each person's path to healing is unique, and I approach therapy with deep compassion and personalized care. My therapeutic approach is rooted in creating a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients can explore their experiences and develop meaningful strategies for personal growth. I draw from evidence-based practices to help individuals build resilience, understand their emotional patterns, and cultivate stronger, healthier relationships with themselves and others. Whether you're struggling with stress, processing past experiences, or seeking to enhance your overall emotional well-being, I'm committed to walking alongside you with empathy, expertise, and genuine care. Together, we can work towards understanding your strengths and creating positive, sustainable changes in your life.

Psychologist Kiumars Vafai providing different types of therapy in Chico

Kiumars Vafai

Clinician
License Type(s): CA LMFT 160908
Mental Wellness Specialties: AddictionsRelationship issuesSelf esteemDepressionCoping with life changes
4 years offering treatment

As a licensed therapist in California, I specialize in supporting individuals navigating complex emotional landscapes. My approach centers on helping clients develop self-love, improve communication, and overcome feelings of isolation while addressing challenges like depression, relationship dynamics, and life transitions. Drawing from evidence-based practices, I create a compassionate and affirming therapeutic space where clients can explore their inner experiences. My work focuses on empowering individuals to build resilience, enhance self-esteem, and discover meaningful pathways through personal struggles. I understand that healing is a deeply personal journey, and I'm committed to walking alongside my clients with genuine respect, cultural sensitivity, and collaborative support. Together, we'll work to transform challenging emotions like guilt and shame into opportunities for growth, self-forgiveness, and renewed purpose.

Find a Therapist Near You in Chico , California

Finding a licensed therapist near you in California can be an important step toward improving your mental health and overall well-being. Whether you’re dealing with anxiety, depression, relationship challenges, stress, or major life changes, working with a qualified mental health professional can offer meaningful support.

California is home to people with diverse mental health needs across urban, suburban, and rural communities. Online therapy makes it easier to connect with a therapist near you without being limited to nearby offices. BetterHelp connects you with licensed therapists authorized to practice in California, allowing you to attend sessions online from the comfort of your home.

Why work with a licensed therapist near you?

Working with a licensed therapist near you ensures that your provider meets state licensing requirements and professional standards in California (CA). Licensed therapists use evidence-based approaches to help individuals manage emotional challenges, develop coping skills, and work toward personal goals.

People seek therapy for many reasons. Some are navigating ongoing mental health concerns, while others want guidance during stressful periods or major life transitions. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to work with a therapist. Many individuals seek therapy to improve communication, strengthen relationships, manage stress, or gain greater self-awareness.

Online therapy can be especially helpful for people living across California, where access to in-person mental health care may vary by location.

What concerns can therapists help with?

Therapists on BetterHelp support adults across California with a wide range of mental health concerns and life challenges, including:

Therapists use approaches such as cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and other evidence-based methods tailored to individual needs.

Online therapy vs. in-person therapy in California

When searching for a therapist near me in California, many people compare online therapy with traditional in-person care. Online therapy offers several potential advantages:

  • Greater accessibility: Attend sessions from anywhere with an internet connection
  • Reduced wait times: Many people are matched in as little as  24-48 hours, faster than typical in-person availability
  • Flexible scheduling: Sessions that fit around work, family, or school commitments
  • Expanded provider options: Access licensed therapists across California, not just nearby offices

Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns. Online therapy may also reduce barriers such as transportation challenges, long commutes, or limited local availability, especially in larger or more rural counties across California.

Finding a therapist near me that accepts insurance

Many people looking for a therapist near me in California want to know whether insurance is an option.

Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. Coverage depends on your plan, provider, and therapist availability.

When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by state and provider availability, so it’s important to check your in-network status directly on the BetterHelp site.

If insurance coverage is not available, BetterHelp’s flexible subscription model remains an option, with online therapy typically costing $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price.

How BetterHelp helps you find the right therapist in California

BetterHelp simplifies the process of finding a therapist near you in California without requiring you to search through tons of profiles on your own.

Here’s how it works:

  1. Complete a brief questionnaire about your needs, preferences, and goals
  2. Get matched with a licensed therapist authorized to practice in California (CA)
  3. Begin online therapy sessions through video, phone, or live chat

BetterHelp works with one of the world’s largest networks of licensed therapists, with over 30,000 qualified providers globally. Many members are matched in as little as 24 to 48 hours, and 93% of user preferences are met during the matching process.

You can request a new therapist at no additional cost if your needs or preferences change.

Therapists near you in California

Below, you’ll find licensed therapists authorized to provide online therapy to adults across California, including residents in Chico.

Each provider meets state licensing requirements and has experience supporting clients with a wide range of mental health concerns using evidence-based therapeutic approaches.

Please note: Therapists on BetterHelp in California do not provide psychiatric medication management or formal diagnoses.

Frequently asked questions about finding a therapist near me

How much does therapy cost near me?

Therapy costs vary depending on provider and location. In-person therapy sessions may cost $100 to $200 or more per session. BetterHelp offers online therapy subscriptions that typically range from $70 to $100 per week, billed weekly or monthly, depending on factors such as location, source, preferences, and therapist availability. Additional discounts or financial aid may also be available for a lower price. BetterHelp now accepts major insurance plans in select states and members pay an average copay of $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Does BetterHelp accept insurance?

Yes. Many providers on BetterHelp now accept major insurance carriers in select states. In many states, certain therapists on BetterHelp may be in-network with specific insurance plans. When sessions are covered, insured members typically pay an average copay of about $19 per session. Coverage varies by plan, provider, and therapist availability. You can check coverage on the BetterHelp site.

Is online therapy effective?

Yes. Research shows that online therapy can be effective for many mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, stress, and relationship challenges. Online therapy allows you to connect with a licensed therapist without commuting to an office.

Do I need a diagnosis to see a therapist?

No. You do not need a mental health diagnosis to seek therapy. Many people work with a therapist for stress management, relationship concerns, grief, life transitions, or personal growth.

How quickly can I start therapy?

Many people are matched with a licensed therapist in as little as 24 to 48 hours after completing the initial questionnaire. Match times may vary based on preferences and therapist availability.

Can I switch therapists if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. If you feel your therapist is not the right match, you can request to be matched with another licensed provider at no additional cost. You are able to do so through the BetterHelp user portal and select switch therapists if needed.

Is online therapy private and secure?

Online therapy through BetterHelp allows you to communicate with your therapist in a discreet  setting through video, phone, or messaging tools.

Finding therapy with a therapist in Chico can change your life. Expert therapy provides the most valuable insights into managing stress, building resilience, and nurturing emotional growth. With the personalized guidance and compassionate support, from a licensed mental health therapeutic expert serving clients in your area, you can gain therapy tools to overcome life’s obstacles and improve overall well-being. It's beneficial to embrace therapy in order to unlock new paths toward happiness and lasting self-improvement. Experience renewed strength and clarity with BetterHelp online therapy services and therapists. Seeking expert therapeutic guidance from a seasoned therapy counselor can foster resilience and personal growth. Embracing professional therapy allows individuals to address their emotional challenges effectively while gaining theraprutic insight and self-assurance. Therapy enhances overall well-being, inspires healthier relationships, and empowers you to navigate their life's obstacles with renewed clarity and confidence beyond measure.
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